Uncomfortable S2 - Day 24

The discomfort of unity in Christ is a paradoxical aspect of the Christian faith that highlights the challenges and sacrifices often associated with pursuing a harmonious community of believers. While unity is a hoped-for ideal within Christianity, achieving and maintaining it can be a demanding and uncomfortable journey.

One of the primary sources of discomfort in pursuing unity in Christ lies in the diversity of believers within the faith. Christians come from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and traditions, bringing many perspectives and beliefs. This diversity can lead to theological differences, cultural clashes, and varying interpretations of scripture. Addressing these differences requires humility, patience, and a willingness to engage in difficult conversations, which can be uncomfortable.

Furthermore, unity in Christ may require individuals to put aside personal preferences and desires for the greater good of the community. This selflessness can be uncomfortable, as it may mean sacrificing one's own comfort, convenience, or desire to serve others. The apostle Paul captures this idea in Philippians 2:3-4, where he encourages believers to "do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit but, in humility, consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others."

Another discomfort associated with unity in Christ is the challenge of forgiveness and reconciliation. In any community, conflicts and misunderstandings are bound to arise. Christ calls believers to forgive one another and seek reconciliation, even when it is difficult. This can be profoundly uncomfortable, as it often involves confronting hurtful actions or attitudes and extending grace to those who have wronged us.

Unity in Christ can also be uncomfortable when it requires Christians to step out of their comfort zones and engage with those who are different from them. This may involve reaching out to marginalized groups, embracing individuals from different backgrounds, or participating in mission work in unfamiliar places. These experiences can be uncomfortable because they challenge preconceived notions and push individuals to develop empathy and compassion.

Despite the discomfort, unity in Christ remains a central and essential aspect of the Christian faith. It reflects the teachings of Jesus, who prayed for the unity of believers in John 17:21, saying, "That all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you." This unity, though uncomfortable at times, is seen as a witness to the world of God's love and transformative power. Ultimately, it is a discomfort borne out of a commitment to following Christ's example and fulfilling his command to love one another as he has loved us.

JOURNAL

1. What kind of witness are we being to the world when we are living in Unity? How about when we are living in Disunity as God’s church? 
2. What would unity look like in your home and in this church? 
3. Do we have to agree to be unified? What are the things we HAVE to agree upon?